Art deco – the visual style which shaped Sydney’s architecture, fashion and advertising from the 1920s to 50s – is the focus of a new and exciting exhibition at the Alan Baker Art Gallery.

Alan’s Art Deco, which runs until April 2024, highlights the influence of the period through the eyes of Camden artist, Alan Baker.

The art deco style first appeared in France in the 1910s before flourishing in other parts of the world, including Australia. The first art deco buildings began to emerge in Sydney in the 1930s, delayed by the Great Depression and World War II.

As the Australian economy was recovering and prospering, Alan Baker developed a successful commercial art career with Tooth & Co producing a series of iconic advertising posters, some of which are featured in the exhibition.

Highlights of the exhibition include:

• Baker’s advertising oil paintings;
• Artworks and portraits by Baker in art deco style;
• Scratchboard works by Baker;
• Items from the 1930s to help set the scene; and
• Photographs that show Sydney’s art deco movement in the 1920s-50s.

Mayor of Camden, Cr Ashleigh Cagney, encouraged everyone to check it out.

“Art deco remains very interesting to many people and so we’re expecting a great deal of interest in this exhibition from locals and visitors to our area,” she said.

“Make sure you head into Alan Baker Art Gallery over the next six months – you don’t want to miss out on the opportunity to see this exhibition.

For more information, visit Camden Council’s website.